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Firefighter Trainee Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Collaborating with stakeholders to make informed decisions SUMMARY Performs general firefighting work in fire suppression and rescue activities, including responsibility for serving as a first ...

Firefighter Trainee information

See Reston, VA salary details

$14

$22

$37

How much do firefighter trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for firefighter trainee in Reston, VA is $22.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Firefighter Trainee job?

A Firefighter Trainee is an entry-level position for individuals preparing to become full-fledged firefighters. Trainees undergo rigorous training in fire suppression, emergency medical response, hazardous materials handling, and rescue operations. They work under the supervision of experienced firefighters while learning department protocols and safety procedures. This role is designed to develop the necessary skills and knowledge required to pass certification exams and advance to a firefighter position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Firefighter Trainee position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Firefighter Trainee, you need strong physical fitness, basic emergency response knowledge, and typically a high school diploma or GED. Firefighter trainees often learn to operate firefighting equipment, use protective gear, and may need CPR or basic first aid certification. Teamwork, quick decision-making, and strong communication are essential soft skills for success in this position. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, effective response during emergencies, and smooth collaboration with firefighting teams.

What does a typical day look like for a Firefighter Trainee?

As a Firefighter Trainee, your days are structured around a mix of classroom instruction, hands-on training, and physical conditioning. You’ll learn about fire behavior, emergency medical procedures, and equipment use, as well as participate in drills that simulate real-life emergencies. Trainees often work alongside experienced firefighters, gradually gaining exposure to live fire scenarios and rescue operations under supervision. The role requires adaptability, teamwork, and a commitment to continuous learning to prepare you for the full responsibilities of a firefighter. This training environment helps build the essential skills and confidence needed for a successful firefighting career.
What are the most commonly searched types of Firefighter jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Firefighter jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Firefighter Trainee jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Firefighter Trainee jobs in Reston, VA are:
Firefighter II- EMT Trainee ($5,000 Sign-on-Bonus) Written Exam & WPE Scheduled for July 9, 2026

Firefighter II- EMT Trainee ($5,000 Sign-on-Bonus) Written Exam & WPE Scheduled for July 9, 2026

Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

Arlington, VA • On-site

$32.43 - $51.98/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Compensation Grade:
F10
Salary Range:
$32.43-$51.98
Opening Date:
May 29, 2026
Closing Date:
July 4, 2026
Please Note: All job announcements close at 11:59 p.m. of the day before the posted closing date.
As a Firefighter II for the Airports Authority, you will help protect the lives of the traveling public by responding to and fighting fires and delivering emergency medical care.
Firefighter II - EMT Trainee
Works under the direct supervision of the Fire Officer (usually Fire Captain) during shift, but may report to another rank or a civilian.
Serves in the Fire and Rescue Department of the Office of Public Safety at either Washington Dulles International Airport or Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
Performs full-performance level Firefighter functions in emergencies, including fire prevention, suppression, rescue, and emergency medical services at the basic life support (BLS) level upon obtaining the Virginia Office of Emergency Medical Services (VA OEMS) EMT certification. Performs related functions.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Responds to emergency incidents, executing all tasks required to mitigate an emergency as certified.
Drives vehicle/apparatus safely. Operates and inspects all apparatus, tools, and equipment safely and effectively to mitigate emergencies and extinguish/suppress fires.
Performs individual and team fire ground operations to ensure safety, fire control, and property protection. Uses risk assessment procedures, assesses emergency situations, and determines appropriate course of action according to training/guidelines, minimizing risk (to self and others) and property damage.
Performs as a member or may perform as a shift team leader to control and stabilize releases or potential releases of HAZMAT when approaching the material.
Inspects or helps inspect airport buildings for adherence to baseline fire and life safety codes.
May lead or help lead non-specialty type training modules/sessions, as required.
Assists with the Department's EMS internship programs.
Participates in the Airports Authority and/or community relations programs.
Performs station maintenance and housekeeping to ensure a clean, safe, and healthy working/ living environment.
Attends in-service/mandatory/basic or specialized training to maintain response readiness. May lead training sessions, as required.
Continued employment as a Firefighter is contingent upon successful completion of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Recruit Training School and the Airports Authority Fire Department orientation.
Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
Must be at least 18 years old by the closing date of the job posting.
Be able to successfully complete a background investigation, including a full employment history check, a credit check, a criminal history records check, and a driving records check.
Be able to pass a comprehensive medical and vision examination, including drug screening.
Be able to successfully pass a physical ability examination and a polygraph examination.
Be able to pass a written exam.
Operational-level knowledge of hazardous materials incident response, basic firefighting and rescue skills, and use of associated equipment and procedures.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Firefighter experience at an Airport Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) airport (commercial or military).
Airport Firefighter certification by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), or a fully equivalent certification.
EDUCATION
A high school diploma or a Certificate of General Educational Development (GED).
CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIRED
A state driver's license in good standing.
Firefighter I certification accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board), the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), or the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP).
Firefighter II certification accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board), the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), or the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP).
Hazardous Materials Operations certification accredited by the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board), the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC), or the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP).
Must successfully complete the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Emergency Medical Technician certification within 6 months of hiring.
Must successfully complete the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority Recruit Training School and Airports Authority Fire Department orientation within 6 months of hiring.
Must be cleared as a driver/operator of an EMS transport unit within one year of hire, promotion, or placement into position.
NECESSARY SPECIAL FACTORS
Must be able to perform duties without adverse effects of motion sickness/claustrophobia.
Works under pressure and maintains emotional self-control during emergencies.
Work requires heavy physical effort; uses strength, climbing/balancing, and crawling.
Regularly exposed to dangerous/hazardous conditions, communicable diseases, and potential for serious injury or death. Wears personal protective equipment.
Works established shifts; is subject to holdover and recall for essential services and emergencies.
Subject to one-time and recurring training, certification, and other requirements and standards mandated by the Commonwealth of Virginia and other proper authority.
Work is typically reviewed in progress and upon completion for quality, quantity, timeliness, teamwork, customer service, and other factors.
WHAT WE OFFER
A career with the Airports Authority comes with more than just a paycheck; it offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support you and your family's health, financial security, and professional growth. Benefits include medical, dental, and vision coverage; well-being resources; health savings and flexible spending accounts; pension and retirement plans; and ongoing training and development opportunities. Discover more about our benefits package here.
A background security investigation will be required for all new hires.
Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer.| Follow us on Twitter @MWAAcareers.